The NBA Summer League returns with an exciting draft class that promises to deliver entertaining basketball. This year, the tournament format has a new twist, with three separate competitions spread across different cities.
The California Classic and Salt Lake City Summer League will run from July 5 to July 8, while the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas continues from July 10 to July 20. Only the Las Vegas tournament features all 30 teams, making it the main event for fans and scouts.
Dylan Harper’s Injury Recovery and Summer League Preparation
The San Antonio Spurs will compete in the California Classic, but their No. 2 pick, Dylan Harper, will skip the tournament due to a groin injury. However, recent clips show the guard putting in work as he prepares for his NBA debut, suggesting he’ll be ready for the Las Vegas portion of the Summer League.
Harper was seen back in action working on his finishing, dribbling and his 3-point shot as he prepares for his first taste of the NBA. The son of NBA legend Ron Harper, Dylan understands the work ethic required to succeed in the league and sustain that success over time.
Dylan Harper has been putting in work for the Spurs as they prepare for Summer league action đź‘Ź
(via @spurs , @HectorLedesmaTV)pic.twitter.com/jgDicwlr5L
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 4, 2025
Picked right behind the No. 1 selection Cooper Flagg, Harper will need to prove his status as a top pick while also competing for Rookie of the Year honors. The Spurs are pleased to see Harper putting in early work despite his injury setback.
While Harper will headline the Spurs’ squad in Vegas, he’ll be joined by Carter Bryant, the 14th pick this year, along with 2024-25 two-way players Harrison Ingram and Riley Minix. Veterans Ibrahima Diallo, Nate Mensah, and Jameer Nelson Jr. will bring Summer League experience from last year to help guide the younger players.
Spurs Face Tough Competition in Summer League Schedule
San Antonio faces a challenging path in the Summer League competition. Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers have assembled strong rosters, making the road to victory in Nevada difficult. The Utah Jazz enter as favorites, featuring their controversial rookie Ace Bailey alongside other talented prospects.
The Spurs will begin their Summer League journey at the California Classic, facing the Miami Heat on July 5. They’ll then head to Las Vegas for the main event, starting with a matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on July 10. Their Vegas schedule also includes games against the Dallas Mavericks (featuring Flagg), Utah Jazz, and Charlotte Hornets.
Harper and the other rookies’ Summer League represents their first opportunity to showcase their skills against NBA-level competition. The tournament is a crucial stepping stone for young players looking to earn roster spots and playing time in the upcoming season.
